Staff Reporter :
The fluctuating day and night temperatures are contributing to the outbreak of cold-related diseases such as fever, cough, diarrhea, asthma, pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and respiratory system complications across the country, posing risks particularly to children and the elderly.
Health experts have noted that the variations in day and night temperatures are conducive to virus transmission, leading to diseases like fever.
These viruses are typically spread through sneezing and coughing. The duration of fever, cold, and cough typically lasts for three to seven days, with a significant portion of those affected being children.
Observations at Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute (BSHI),
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), and Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) reveal a surge in patients with cold-related illnesses flooding the emergency and outpatient departments.
Hospital authorities report a 25 percent increase in patients with cold-related diseases compared to normal times.
Kamrun Nahar, the mother of Tahira and Rushaida, shared her daughters’ ordeal, stating that they have been suffering from cold and fever for three days. Initially, they assumed it was a typical cold and fever and administered Paracetamol.
However, when they developed ear complications, they sought medical attention, and the doctor prescribed ear drops and advised observation.
Information obtained from a dispensary in the Badda area of the capital indicates a surge in the sale of medications like Monas and Fexo during winter, while medications for cold and fever (Ace, Napa) see increased sales when temperatures rise.
During ordinary times, the outpatient department of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute typically treats 800-900 patients daily, but now it has surged to 1200-1300 patients.
Dr. ABM Mahfuz Hasan Al Mamun from BSHI noted that he has been treating patients since morning, having already provided treatment to 153 patients by 2:00 pm. Most patients present with symptoms such as fever, cough, diarrhea, asthma, pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and respiratory complications, with some also suffering from skin diseases.
